Pallanca Exotic Garden: A Journey Among Succulent Plants in Bordighera

The Pallanca Exotic Garden, located on the hills of Bordighera, is a true paradise for succulent lovers. Created by Ettore Pallanca in the mid-19th century, it houses over 3,000 species of cacti and succulents from around the world. Among the rarities are the Aloe dichotoma and the century-old cactus. The garden extends across panoramic terraces offering breathtaking views of the Bordighera sea.
– Unique collection: over 3,000 species of succulents and cacti.
– Historic setting: a 19th-century garden with panoramic terraces.
– Spectacular view: overlooking the Ligurian Sea and the Riviera dei Fiori.
– Educational experience: a didactic path among rare and giant species.

The Pallanca Exotic Garden in Bordighera offers a unique collection of succulents and cacti, set among panoramic terraces and rare species. A botanical oasis not to be missed on the Riviera dei Fiori.

Via Madonna della Ruota, Imperia (IM)
Open in Google Maps
View on Google Images Giardino esotico Pallanca a Imperia

Good to know

Introduction

Historical Background

A Labyrinth of Terraces and Blooms

Sea view and timeless atmosphere

Why Visit It

When to go

Nearby

Introduction

If you think of Bordighera and imagine only beaches and palm trees, get ready to think again. Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, the Pallanca Exotic Garden is an explosion of shapes and colors: thousands of succulent plants and cacti climb across terraced slopes, creating a stunning contrast with the blue of the Mediterranean. Stepping inside feels like a leap into a Mexican desert, but with the salty air of the Riviera. Every corner holds a surprise, from unlikely blooms to postcard-perfect views.

Back to index

Historical Background

It all began with Luigi Pallanca, an avid collector who started importing exotic plants from every continent in the 1920s. What was a private passion soon became a garden open to the public, expanded by his son Giuseppe and now managed by the family. It is one of the few Italian botanical gardens specializing in succulents, with century-old specimens from Mexico, South Africa, and Madagascar.

Timeline:

1920: Luigi Pallanca begins the collection
1950: Partial opening to the public
2000: Renovation and expansion of the terraces
Today: Over 3,000 species, visitable by appointment

Back to index

A Labyrinth of Terraces and Blooms

The path winds through five levels connected by staircases and trails. Each terrace has a different microclimate: here you’ll find aloe vera, there ferocactus as tall as a man. The beauty is that the plants aren’t in pots but grow in the ground, as in nature. In spring and summer, sudden blooms paint the garden pink, yellow, and orange. I caught the agave flowering: a unique spectacle, but watch out for the spines!

Back to index

Sea view and timeless atmosphere

The real love at first sight comes when you step onto the highest terrace. From there, between a palm tree and a Mexican candelabra, the sea of Bordighera opens up before you. You feel suspended between Africa and Liguria. The air is silent, only the wind through the spines. Around you, Liberty-style villas and the scent of maritime pine. No rush: every bench invites you to stop and observe the details of these plants from far away.

Back to index

Why Visit It

1. Botanical uniqueness: it’s the only Ligurian garden dedicated to succulents. Stuff you won’t find elsewhere on the Riviera. 2. Incredible view without the crowds: unlike other gardens, here you breathe authenticity. 3. Popular price (€5 adults, free under 12) and family-run. Perfect for a morning different from the usual beach swim.

Back to index

When to go

The garden is open from March to October, but the best time? Late spring (May-June) for the massive blooms. If instead you’re after the perfect light, aim for late afternoon: the low sun sculpts the shapes of the cacti and warms the terraces. Avoid the midday hours in summer—the heat among the stones is intense.

Back to index

Nearby

Just a stone’s throw away, the historic center of Bordighera is worth a stroll among flower-lined alleys and the Church of Terrasanta. If you’re still in the mood for greenery, head to the Hanbury Gardens in Ventimiglia: another botanical paradise, but completely different, with tropical species and a breathtaking view. Two gardens, two worlds, same Riviera.

Back to index

Itineraries nearby

Search Itineraries

💡 Did You Know…?
A fun fact: the Pallanca Garden houses a specimen of Pachypodium geayi over 3 meters tall, donated by Prince Rainier of Monaco. Additionally, every spring, the garden organizes temporary floral exhibitions that attract enthusiasts from all over Europe.